If you’re planning an international trip, Apple just released a new how-to video on the Apple Support YouTube channel explaining how to stay connected using a travel eSIM. Watch the video below to see the full walkthrough, then follow these steps to get started.
When you’re traveling internationally, you have three main ways to use mobile data:
For this guide, Apple uses an international eSIM example on an iPhone 17 Pro with iOS 26, but it also works on any iPhone XS, XR, or newer that supports eSIM.
Some popular eSIM travel data offerings include Saily (from the makers of NordVPN) and Airalo. It’s way cheaper to buy eSIM data than pay daily roaming rates with a ‘Big 3’ carrier.
Setting up your travel eSIM
After buying a travel eSIM, you might be redirected straight to your Cellular settings to activate it. If prompted, tap Activate, then wait a few minutes. When setup completes, tap Continue and choose Abroad when asked where you’ll use the eSIM.
Next, select Voice and Data, then tap Continue again. Your eSIM will now appear in your list of SIMs, ready for when you travel.
Turning on your eSIM abroad
When you arrive at your destination, you can activate your travel eSIM from a notification on your lock screen, or manually through Settings → Cellular.
From there, you can:
To conserve data, you can also turn on Low Data Mode.
Returning home
When your trip ends, simply turn off your travel eSIM in Cellular settings. Your iPhone may also switch back automatically to your regular line and alert you with a notification. Apple reminds users that eSIM functionality depends on carrier support and regional availability.
Check out their full video tutorial below:
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Just switched to a new Rogers plan that includes calling and data to/from Canada and 64 other countries, and international texting.
This is really the best way to go for someone who travels regularly. I have a similar plan from Freedom mobile (120 countries). So simple, plane lands, turn on phone, away you go!
What is the monthly cost of your new plan Rogers?
$125 and it includes 400GB of data. Check your offers, you might have a cheaper plan
What is the monthly cost of your new plan Rogers?
Me too but with Bell. I got a one year roaming feature in a Bell special offer for $100, but otherwise it would cost about an extra $20/month over my current plan.
I have used travel SIMs/eSIMs for years to save money, but I doubt I’ll bother anymore. The carriers have finally reacted to the cheap alternative eSIMs provide.
For years I used an international SIM card called Keepgo. Dumped it recently since Freedom has cheaper options now.